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Topic Review (Newest First)

05-26-2014 11:09 AM

blackshep

There's lots of support groups online for owners of EPI dogs! Just do a google search!

I don't have experience with it myself, so my knowledge is limited, but my understanding is that once you get the digestive enzymes and diet sorted out, they can go on to live long and full lives.

I'm sorry you're dealing with this, but I do think it's something you can manage, so don't give up hope!

05-26-2014 10:43 AM

Abbey'sMom

thankyou for that info...

05-26-2014 09:48 AM

duenorth

I have a Shiloh shepherd with EPI and we've been using enzymes from Enzyme Diane for years very successfully. I started with the 6x powder and changed a couple of years ago to the 8x powder, which is stronger and less is required in the food. Keeva is 12 and the EPI hasn't affected her quality of life too drastically.
I did give her raw pig pancreas at one point instead of enzymes and that worked well but we did go back to the enzymes for convenience. I avoid fatty or rich foods like turkey or bone marrow, but she can tolerate a few extra treats. I would say that stress is the most detrimental thing for an EPI dog. A stressful episode like a vet visit can cause loose stool but that usually clears up within a day or so.
She does have additional autoimmune conditions, including pannus and degenerative myelopathy, and a couple of small skin tumors. Out of everything, the EPI is actually one of the least debilitating issues.
It can definitely be managed.

05-26-2014 12:47 AM

Abbey'sMom

She was so little there...seems like forever ago...and oddly enough when we got there...she ran right up to my husband...i think I posted recent pics of her in an older post. When I get on my computer...will show u 8:20...

05-26-2014 12:43 AM

Heidigsd

Forgot to add that it helps to keep a daily log at first. I just wrote everything down in a notebook or you can print this out: Printable EPI Log -

It really helps when you can go back to see what you changed (enzyme dosage, food, meds, etc) and how the dog responded.

05-25-2014 11:50 PM

Sunflowers

Quote:

Originally Posted by Abbey'sMom

Sunflowers...LOL...yes Abbey was 10:45...,now she is more like 8:20....

Still makes me laugh!

For what it's worth, I don't think the ears had anything to do with the EPI, either.

Many of us do what we think are all the right things and still end up with dogs with problems. I know how frustrating it can be. I do my best to put all the frustration energy into beating whatever problem flares up. Takes a while and it is emotionally draining, I know.

05-25-2014 11:48 PM

Abbey'sMom

Heidi..i do not know what her B12 level is..i assume this is the next step. It just seems between kids and dogs...the allergies and issues are like none I have ever seen. When your buying dog food...ever wonder why there are over 100 kinds and brands and recipes?? I know I have. Thankyou for your advice!

05-25-2014 11:43 PM

Heidigsd

I can understand you frustration since my story is very similar to yours. I am sorry that Abbey has EPI but at least you know and can start her treatment. I am seeing so many dogs diagnosed with this lately it's insane

Nikki is on Tylan for life for SIBO and gets weekly B12 injections. She gets special treats because she also has food allergies and atopy. I would not give Abbey any treats right now until her EPI is stable. Do you know what her B12 level is?

05-25-2014 11:33 PM

Abbey'sMom

My first GSD Brandy..yes came from a pet store..of course I know better now..but I thought breeders were for fancy people with lots of money that wanted show dogs. I wanted a pet. I might not have been certain what conditions her parents lived in...but we knew when we saw her that she was the one...she was the true meaning of a gentle giant at a cool 100 lbs...she loved everything and everyone...and I wouldn't change a thing I did that day...she was brought to me for a reason regardless of where I actually bought her from...i still miss her.

05-25-2014 11:26 PM

Abbey'sMom

Sunflowers...LOL...yes Abbey was 10:45...,now she is more like 8:20....

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